How to Avoid Winter Slips and Falls in Maine
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Healthy Living, Injury Prevention, Maine Community Health, Physical Therapy Tips on October 1, 2025
Winter in Southern Maine brings beauty with its snowy streets and frosty mornings, but it also brings icy sidewalks, slippery driveways, and hidden patches of black ice. Every year, falls on the ice send people to the doctor with sprains, broken bones, or back injuries. At Reform PT, we see how these accidents can disrupt daily life, from missed work to months of recovery. The good news is that most slips and falls can be prevented with preparation and awareness.
Why Slips and Falls Are So Common in Maine Winters
Snow and freezing rain create slick conditions across parking lots, sidewalks, and driveways. Temperatures often rise during the day and drop again at night, creating patches of ice that are easy to miss. Places like grocery store parking lots in Brunswick, icy steps in Yarmouth, or frozen sidewalks in Portland become risky without warning. Even a quick trip to take out the trash can end with a dangerous fall if the ground is icy.
Preparing Before You Step Outside
One of the best ways to prevent falls is to choose the right footwear. Shoes and boots with good traction give you more stability on icy surfaces. In Southern Maine, where snow quickly turns into slush and ice, it’s worth investing in boots with slip-resistant soles. Adding ice cleats to your shoes can provide extra grip, especially for older adults or anyone who feels unsteady.
Clearing walkways also makes a big difference. Spreading sand, salt, or ice melt on driveways and steps reduces the chance of slipping. If you live in an area like Topsham or Freeport where sidewalks may not be cleared right away, keeping a small bag of sand or cat litter handy lets you create a safer path.
Moving Safely on Ice
Even with preparation, it’s important to change the way you move during winter. Taking shorter steps and keeping your feet flat on the ground helps you stay balanced. Many people find it helpful to walk like a penguin, leaning slightly forward with arms free for balance. Avoid rushing, carrying heavy bags, or texting while walking on icy ground. If you do slip, bending your knees slightly and rolling with the fall may reduce the chance of serious injury compared to landing stiff and straight.
What To Do If You Fall
If a fall happens, it’s important to take it seriously. Many people brush off the pain, but untreated injuries can worsen over time. A sprained ankle, sore back, or aching hip may feel minor at first but could signal something more significant. At Reform PT, we help patients recover from winter falls with hands-on care, strengthening, and balance training. Early treatment not only helps with healing but also prevents future falls.
Conclusion
Winter in Southern Maine is part of what makes life here unique, but it also comes with challenges. By wearing the right footwear, preparing your walkways, and moving with care, you can stay safe even on icy days. If you or a loved one experiences a fall, Reform PT is here to help you recover and get back to your routine quickly.